Collapses Meaning: Definition and Examples
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collapses
[kəˈlæps ]
Definitions
fall down
To collapse means to fall down or give way, especially as a result of a failure or the loss of support or structure. It can refer to physical structures, systems, or even a person losing strength or energy.
Synonyms
break down, cave in, crumble, fall.
Examples of usage
- The building collapses after the earthquake.
- She collapses from exhaustion after the marathon.
- The market collapses due to financial crises.
sudden failure
A collapse refers to a sudden failure of a structure or system, often leading to the loss of its intended function or form. It can involve physical structures like buildings or abstract systems like economies.
Synonyms
breakdown, crash, failure, implosion.
Examples of usage
- The sudden collapse of the bridge caused a major disaster.
- There was a severe economic collapse in the 1930s.
- His emotional collapse was a shock to everyone.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, collapses can refer to the sudden failure of structures under stress, like buildings during an earthquake.
- In astronomy, a star can collapse under its own gravity, leading to phenomena like black holes.
Psychology
- In mental health contexts, a 'collapse' might describe a sudden breakdown in mental health, affecting emotions and behavior.
- The term is sometimes used to explain when someone feels overwhelmed and cannot cope anymore.
Architecture
- The study of structural collapses has led to stronger building codes to prevent disasters in architecture.
- Famous collapses, like the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in 1940, have provided lessons in engineering and design.
Pop Culture
- In popular media, 'collapse' is often used to signify the downfall of a character or society, seen frequently in dystopian novels and movies.
- Video games may use collapsing structures as a dramatic plot device to increase tension during critical moments.
Origin of 'collapses'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'collapsus', which means 'to fall together'.
- In English, it was first used in the 16th century to describe the act of falling down or failing.
The word 'collapse' traces its origins back to the Latin word 'collapsus,' which is the past participle of 'collabi,' meaning 'to fall together.' This compound of 'com-' (together) and 'labi' (to fall) reflects the idea of something losing its structure and falling in on itself. The term entered English usage in the early 19th century and has since evolved to encompass various contexts, from physical structures to more abstract concepts like economics and emotional states. Over time, 'collapse' has been applied to describe not just physical disasters, but also failures in systems of governance, societal structures, and personal health, making it a versatile term in the English language.